A research team led by Assoc Prof Kimberly Fornace is working to identify potential macaque monkey hotspots where a malaria-causing parasite carried by monkeys could spread to humans. By recording the calls of these primates, which are the natural hosts of the parasite, researchers can track their presence in different areas without needing direct sightings.
Disease risks are exacerbated by climate change that prompt animal populations to move into new areas, where they may have increased contact with humans. The project is part of a wider effort to understand how climate change affects public health, alongside critical areas such as food security, water resources, and energy. As a global transport hub, Singapore must remain vigilant against the threat of emerging infectious diseases.
Photo credit: The Straits Times